5 Stunning Natural Attractions You Can Explore In Samar Island.

Samar

ISLAND, PHILIPPINES

Samar, island, east-central Philippines, the third largest after Luzon and Mindanao, part of the Visayan Islands archipelago. It lies between the Samar and Philippine seas and is separated from the Bicol Peninsula of Luzon (northwest) by the San Bernardino Strait. A bridge across the San Juanico Strait connects Samar with Leyte to the southwest. Samar lacks the high mountains that characterize most of the Visayas, but it is exceedingly hilly, with elevations generally from 500 to 1,000 feet 150 to 300 metres, culminating in Mount Capotoan 2,776 feet [846 metres. Lowlands are restricted to a coastal fringe and to small river floodplains and deltas. The island’s rivers are generally short and flow in a radial pattern. Frequent typhoons in late summer and autumn cause considerable damage. 

SamarBeach on Samar island, Phil.

The island’s interior is sparsely settled, and its inhabitants practice shifting cultivation. Permanent settlements are generally coastal. Samarans, who constitute the largest Filipino ethnolinguistic group on the island, are also found on eastern Leyte. They are mostly Roman Catholics and cultivate rice and root crops (sweet potatoes and cassava). Coconuts and abaca are the main cash crops.

Samar is largely isolated from the main island shipping routes. Most of its internal trade is by coastal ships. Iron ore, extracted in the southeast, is shipped from the port of General MacArthur (Pambuhan Sur). There are also deposits of coal, phosphate, and chromite. Samar is well forested, and there are logging and sawmill operations at the eastern coastal towns of Dolores, Taft, Borongan, and Oras. Catarman is the chief town on the northern coast. Catbalogan, the island’s principal commercial centre, and the city of Calbayog are important western coastal ports and fishing centres.

The massive tropical cyclone Super Typhoon Haiyan, which devastated a large portion of the central Philippines on November 8, 2013, first made landfall in the country at Guiuan, at the southeastern tip of Samar. That city was largely destroyed, as were many other localities in the southern part of the island, and hundreds of people were killed. Area 5,050 square miles (13,080 square km). Pop. (2000) 1,517,585; (2010) 1,751,267.

HIGHLIGHTS IN THE HISTORY OF SAMAR.

The Early Beginning of History.

To Samar belongs the distinction of being the first island of the Philippine Archipelago to be landed by the Spaniards. On March 16, 1521, Ferdinand Magellan and his men sighted an island then called Zamal by the natives. The island, which is now called Samar, was described as being mountainous. They landed in the small island of Humunu of Homonhon. There, two huts were built for the sailors. Homonhon was then uninhabited, but a few natives from the neighboring islet of Suluan came to see the strangers and to offer them food and wine.

Origin of the Name.

The former names given to Samar were Zamal, ibabao, or Zibabao, Achan, and Tandaya. Legend states that when the Spaniards first set foot on Homonhon, they met a wounded native from whom they asked the name of the place. As the wounded man did not understand Spanish, he thought they were asking what happened to him and he replied “Samad” mening wound in the local dialect. So, the navigators adopted the name for the island with a slight alteration of the last letter, from Samad toSamar.

Historical Events during the Spanish era.

The Jesuit missionaries came to Samar in 1596. The capital town of Catbalogan was founded or serried sometime in October, 1596 by the priests of the Jesuit order. From 1596 to 1768, the Jesuit fathers were responsible for the following:

1. The evangelization and conversion of the natives of Samar to Catholic Religion.
2. The construction of stone churches and convent
3. The purring of fortresses for protection against and refuge from, the moro pirates and
4. The teaching of Catholic doctrines and other religions practices.  

The Jesuit left Samar in 1768. That same year, the Spanish Franciscans took over the administration or the first parishes of the Dioceses – Catbalogan, Gandara, Paranas, Palapag, Catubig, Catarman and Opat. From 1768 to the coming of the Americans in 1900, the Franciscan fathers were largely responsible for the primary re-education of the masses, the translation of books, grammar, dictionaries, novenas, prayers into the vernacular, and the widespread teaching of sculpture, silver-smithing, weaving of silk, “piña” “sinamay” and cotton embroidery.

During the early days of Spanish occupation in the Philippines, Samar often then called Ibabao – waw under the jurisdiction of Cebu. Later, it was declared a separate province, but in 1735 Samar and Leyte were united and made into one province with Cargara in Leyte as the capital. The union did not prove satisfactory, however, so in 1768, Samar again became a separate province from Leyte. Since then Samar has always been an independent political unit with Catbalogan as the capital.      

                                                                                                          

The Sumoroy Revolt.

The province was involved in one of the biggest, revolts in the Philippines led by Sumoroy in 1649. Governor Fajardo ordered the Alcaldes mayors of the Visayas islands to send workmen to Cavite to build ships for the Spanish galleon trade. Under the leadership of Sumoroy, the people of Palapag and Pambujan revolted in protest against forced labor and also the collection of tributes and the cruelties of the “Guardia Civil.” The rebels killed and burned churches. On June 11 of that year, Fr. Miguel Ponce, Rector of Palapag, was killed. The Sumoroy rebellion brought about the destruction of churches and convents in Palapag, Catubig, Laoang, Pambujan, Catarman and Bobon throughout the Visayas as far as Mindoro.

Muslim Incursions.

From 1752 to 1762, the Muslims (Moros) continuously raided and plundered the coastal towns of Western and Northern Samar. They captured priest for ransom and sold natives to slavery. They plundered, killed and burned the villages of Catubig, Catarman, Calbayog, Capul, Pambujan, Catbalogan and Basey. This made life and property very insecure so that the population along the coast decreased considerably. The depreciation lessened only when British ships occupied Philippines seas. In 1771 the Moros renewed their piratical attacks and raided again capturing Franciscan missionary, Fr. Gebastian Medina, for ransom. Governor Anda formed a flotilla of light gunboats to protect the coastal towns and reorganized the “Armada de Pintados” for the Visayas. The Moro attacks finally stopped. Watched tower – the ruins of which are still seen on the coasts of Samar – are mute witness to the Muslim raids along Samar shores.

Pulahan Movement.

About 1894, the pulahan, a so-called secret subversive organization because the members were red (pula) trousers and red bands on their hats, was organized by a person who was known as Papa Pablo Entigue Dagohob, or Antion Anogar. The members looted and killed their way through towns they called and reached from Pambujan to Basey. On July 5, 1902, they tried to take over force the local government of Gandara but failed.

Important Events During The Philippine Revolution.

The Spaniards left for Iloilo December 10, 1898. Several days later General Vicente Lukban and his staff of the Philippine Revolutionary Forces arrived Catbalogan on “SS” San Nicolas about the Second week of January 1899, revolutionary soldiers from Luzon arrived immediately thereafter, General Lukban organized the Provincial Revolutionary Government under short-lived Philippine Republic of General Emilio Aguinaldo.

Landing of the American Forces.

In the morning of January 27, 1900, nine American warships, with flags hoisted, anchored at Maqueda Bay of Catbalogan, the capital town. The Americans gave the Filipino “insorectos” instead set Catbalogan on fire. Despite the efforts of the American soldiers to put on the fire the whole town with the exception of the church, was razed to the ground. The Filipino forces fled to the hills. The Americans landed, pitched their tents and made camps. They proceeded to capture Genral Lukban. Almost two years had elapsed before the Americans were able to capture the elusive General on his mountain hideout of February 27, 1902. The capture of General Lukban put an end to resistance movement in Samar. To Samar belong the distinction of being one of the last four provinces to surrender to the American Forces.

The Balangiga Massacre.

Gen. Jacob Smith and his staff inspect the ruins of Balangiga in October 1901, a few weeks after the US retaliation by Capt. Bookmiller and his troops

During the Filipino American War, the Balangiga massacre brought historical renown to the province of Samar. The American soldiers who were garrisoned in the town were massacred in a cleverly planned assault on their camp on September 29, 1901. The Filipino natives led by Valeriano Abanador, well-disguised as a woman attended an early morning mass in the town church. At a pre-arranged signal they surprised the American soldiers in the convent and in the nearby municipal building in which they were quartered. It was probably one of the great casualties the Americans suffered during eh Filipino-American War. About fifty-seven American officers and men, including Capt. Thomas N. O’Connel, a West Point Graduate who was the Company Commander, were slaughtered by the Filipino who use only bolos and dagger, according to the accounts of old inhabitants. Only a few American escaped to Tacloban City by swimming across the Balangiga River. The Americans later brought the church bell of the town to the United States as  historical souvenir of the massacre.


Under American Rule.

The Americans establish civil rule in Samar on June 17, 1902 with Hon. Julio Llorente as Governor of Samar by appointment. His term of office was from June 17, 1902 to July 21, 1903.

With peace restored public schools were established with American soldiers as teachers. Books and school supplies were given free to the children. School attendance was compulsory. 

Construction of Schools Artesian Wells Wharves Etc.

The Samar Trades School Building was inaugurated in 1912. The Gabaldon type Central School building was erected in 1913 and inaugurated the following year. It turned out its first graduate in 1922.

Bridges, artesian wells causeways, wharves, and breakwaters were built. Hospitals and radio stations were established.

Roads joining the northern and southern part of Samar were opened. The road to the East was inaugurated in 1939 thus disposing with the wearisome and hazardous trip by way of the Olot river. In 1940, the Samar-Leyte road was formally opened to traffic. It made the capital of Samar easily accessible from Leyte. 

The Japanese Occupation.

The Japanese occupied Samar early in the morning of May 24, 1942. They landed unchallenged at the scall barrio of Pangdan south of Catbalogan and they proceeded to the capital most of the inhabitants had earlier evacuated the town. The Japanese demanded the return within 15 days of the residents. However the people did not hear the order, so one night in June 1942, the Japanese burned the town.

The Japanese Military was organized with Cayetano Lucero as Governor of Samar. Each municipality was given a Japanese appointed mayor.

Food production was enforced and the streets were literally bordered with camote and cassava. There was enough food supply for the people. It was obvious that nobody suffered from starvation. The people were engaged in buying and selling. It was easier to get the much needed lumber for building materials though barter. The “Daido Booki Laisha” opened a branch in the capital to sell commodities to the people. In 1943, elementary classes were reopened. All textbooks containing American Literature and other topics pertaining to western democracies were either condemned or deleted.

Neighborhood association were formed. The members kept watch over the town at night. The leaders of these neighborhood associations were charged with the issuing of ration cards for sugar and cigarettes. Classes in Nippongo and First Aid were organized Japanese soldiers conducted early morning “radio Taiso”, Social life appeared normal although there was an air of restrain in parties and dances due to the presence of Japanese soldiers and officers for lack of something else, to do the people resoried to gambling of all kinds. Throughout the Japanese occupation a well-planned system of insults brutalities atrocities, reprisals, and moping up operations were undertaken by the Japanese and the B.C. (Bureau of Constabulary).

The pulahans this time a new name, Katipuneros abetted and encouraged by the Japanese Commander Makojen, rose again to help the Japanese in the latter’s persecution of the guerilla soldiers.

Carnival in the Town Capital.                                                                            A seven-day carnival in connection with the town fiesta celebration on August 24, 1944 was held in front of Samar Provincial Capitol. Booths for exhibits canteens and an auditorium were artistically constructed of sawali nipa and bamboo. A bandstand was built in the center of the Lagoon in front of the capital. To the people who had seen nothing more than the ruins of the burned town, Carnival City was simply beautiful. People from far and near enjoyed every minute of the carnival and the Japanese guards who kept pacing up and down the gates, left unmolested to the enjoyment. There was a parade of beauties from every town and beauty contest for the title of Miss Samar was conducted. The whole affair was like a big farewell party toe the Japanese Occupation. 

The Resistance Movement.                                                                  The guerilla resistance contained in places far from Catbalogan. Soon after the surrender of Bataan to the superior Japanese forces in January 1942, the province was disbanded by the order to the high command, but several intrepid formed into guerilla units. The first unit organized with Lt. Sevillano (who was liquidated of Guian after liberation) and Gubatan, in Catarman who was later joined by Capt. Pedro V. Merrit who assumed command.

Simultaneously, ex-Governor Pedro R. Arteche, who was then elected representative for the second district of Samar, formed his own guerilla forces that became known as the “Philippine Guerilla Force” with headquarters at Bo. San Andres Villareal, Samar. At the height of its campaign against the Japanese the barrio was bombed by the Japanese but Arteche carried on.

Another guerilla unit was founded by a major in Guiuan and still another independent guerilla unit was formed by Major Luciano Abia in Basey, samar.

The guerilla unit, known as the 93rd Infantry Division USAFEE, led by Pedro merit, had the widest area of command. It covered the northern coast as far as Gandara on West coast, and the greater part of the east coast. Arteche had his command on the western coast Valley had his in the southern portion of the province. 

The Allied Intelligence Bureau.                                                    American forces came to Samar very much ahead of the landing in Leyte of General Douglas MacArthur in October 1944. An Allied Intelligence Bureau unit with Major Smith, at the command, landed in the eastern part of the barrios of San Miguel and San Vicente in the Municipality of Catubig and another in barrio Lavezares, which and a clear view of San Bernardino strait. From the AIB in Catubig which was manned by handful of Americans and some 20 Muslims (soldiers) from Mindanao, the members of the guerilla units from Luzon came to get their supplies of radio units, some money, arms, and ammunitions. This AIB was from Australia who came in December 1943 much ahead of MacArthur. The Japanese having learned of the presence of the Americans in Samar raided the AIB headquarters in San Vicente and San Miguel in May 1944 but a few Americans and Muslim soldiers jointly fought against the Japanese giving no casualty in their side. The Japanese suffered heavy casualty in their side. The Japanese suffered heavy casualty.

With the coming of the AIB, Samar folk enjoyed American manufactured cigarettes, chocolate bars, etc. Their morale was boasted with assurance that the American forces would be coming back to redeem their pledge. The diverse guerilla units in Samar were then united by Major Smith, with himself in command. Then he was transferred elsewhere by order of the high command. Lt. Col. Juan Causing a regular officer of the Philippine Army was given the command of the entire guerilla forces in the province until liberation.

The Liberation of Samar                                                                      As early as September, 1944, thousands of U.S. planes began to be seen at high altitudes. Then followed by visits from planes dropping messages from the U.S. Army which had already landed in Leyte. In November, U.S. planes raided weekly the capital and several other towns on the west coast. Japanese morale weakening, and the civilians were again stealthily evacuating very much against the will of the Japanese and the B.C. coming as a surprise, the Japanese high command demanded an immediate 24 hours evacuation of the town. At dawn on December 18, 1944 the Japanese soldiers left Catbalogan on foot. Before the sun was on the next daty the American liberation had landed in Catbalogan. On the same day, the evacuees began returning to the towns.

The Philippine Civil Affairs Unit                                                       The PCAU forthwith reconstituted the Government. All elementary classes were opened in January, 1945, the Samar High Trade School resumed classes. Private colleges, Catholic, Protestants, Non-secretariats sprung up throughout the province.

Pambujan Sur, formerly a barrio of Hernani, was converted into a municipality and was given a new name MacArthur in honor of the Liberator of the Philippines.

The Post Liberation Period                                                                          Junior high schools were opened in Taft, Dolores, Balangiga, Basey, Gamay and Palapag. During the Administration of Governor Baltazar Avelino, Samar was converted into a first class “A” province. Calbayog became chartered city on July 16, 1949 by virtue of Republic Act No. 328. It is presently composed of the former municipalities of Calbayog, Tinambacan and Oquendo. The Calbayog City High School was established soon after the town became a city. Old roads and bridges in the province were repaired after liberation. New roads and bridges were built.

Samar delicacies.                                                      

Staple

• Palawan slices

MeatLelang - "a native pork recipe containing shrimps, togue, and sotanghon"

Tamalos - "a Mexican version of tamales, which is packed with slivers of liempo (pork belly) and chunks of soft fat cooked with rice flour in a spicy, rich peanut sauce"

Raw beef tenderloin

Longganisa de Catbalogan

Native chicken adobo sa gata

Rice cakes and sweets

Salukara - in Borongan, "a pancake or crêpe-like rice flour delicacy that uses tuba or young coconut wine as riser instead of baking powder"

Tambis-tambis - "sweet coconut shreds with food coloring, molded, deep-fried and sprinkled with white sugar"; shaped like tambis or macopa

Sagmani - "palawan root crop stuffed with ground palawan mixed with young coconut and sugar"

Pikin, Piking? - "delicacy in Lao-ang made from deep-fried cassava with syrup and sesame seed; crunchy, sweet and delicious" (Tito Encarnacion)

Minuron - suman made of palawan rootcrop

Molido - "ground camote or sweet potato nuts made into candy by adding lots of sugar and some liquid milk"

Moron, Chocolate moron (Samar, Leyte) - ; also called

Bakintol - in Borongan, ground rice suman with chocolate, a.k.a. moron

Kinayod na butig - yam dessert

Kurukod, Kurokod, Kurakod - sweet or salty ground cassava suman wrapped in hagikhik leaf; with coconut filling

Ira-id bilanghoy - sweet cassava suman cooked into a jelly and wrapped in hagikhik leaf

Ira-id butig - squarish, heavy taro suman wrapped in hagikhik leaf

Piñato - pinipig ampaw with crushed peanuts

Sinarungsong - ground rice suman in pointy cone-shaped banana leaf packets

Sinakugan - in Western Samar, violet sticky rice cooked in coconut milk

Suman wrapped in anahaw leaf

Puto balanghoy

Linumpak

Sinapot (maruya)

Pastries

Samar torta - "a fluffy, flower-shaped buttery cake that is the Visayans’ answer to the Kapampangan ensaymada"

Hopia de pili - Charito’s Delights specialty

Delicias de pili, Dulce delicias de pili - Charito’s Delights specialty

Corioso - a Spanish-era biscuit; "crunchy butter cookies"

Roscas - "sugar-sprinkled cookies"

Sasima - "a caramel bread crumb treat"

De caña - "butter-less, low-sugar cookies"

Cheese

Queseo - "kesong puti or salty white cheese from very fresh carabao’s milk that was pasteurized then mixed into pungent vinegar; served in thin rounds, eaten for breakfast with pan de sal or often with steaming hot rice;" Gandara specialty

Wine

Intus - wine made from sugar cane juice which is boiled with a bark just before it becomes sugar and also fermented in jars

Tuba - coconut toddy

Fish and seafood

Crabs (or Snails) in coconut milk

Fish escabeche - in Catbalogan, yellow color because of turmeric, with ginger and vinegar"

Nilabog nga pating, Linabog nga pating - shark cooked in coconut milk and chilies

Podpod - in Borongan, disc-shaped smoked fish

Tarukog shellfish dishes (sisig, dinabong)

Kilawing ulnitan (sea cucumber) 

Raw arakaak seafood

Tinapa - smoked alumahan or hasa-hasa with coconut milk and fern; a Western Samar delicacy

Ping-Ping’s Tinapa (alumahan and hasa-hasa)

Inutok - hipon with buko topped with gata; a Western Samar delicacy

Pampano

Sweet dried baby squid

Ganga - spider conch that tastes like escargot

Tuwad - tiny conical shellfish

Ginataang pusit

Sinamoan (Sabaw ng ginataang pusit na inihalo sa kanin)

Manlalara (Samaral)

BB?

Halaan soup

Ampalaya con hipon

Diwal

Scallops

Fried manlalara, Bulad na manlalara, Grilled manlalara, etc. - samaral dishes

Kamuntaha in Sprite and garlic - boiled mantis shrimp delicacy of Biri

Drink

Chocolate batirol

Condiments
Sisi dipped in sinamak - fermented baby 'oysters' or baby clams

Pickled batwan 

5 Stunning Natural Attractions You Can Explore In Samar Island.

1. Rock Formations

Samar has a long and rugged coastline, some of its islands surrounded by spectacular natural rock formations formed by pounding winds, raging storms and ruthless waves. One of the best places where you can see these natural wonders is Biri Island in Northern Samar. 

2. Caves

Samar has been dubbed the “Caving Capital of the Philippines” because of the number of amazing cave systems on the island, many of which remain unexplored.

One of the most popular eco-tourism cave attractions that’s been developed for tourists is the Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park (SNBNP) located in the town of Basey. The park gets its name for the local term “sohot” which means to pass through because guests ride a boat along a stream that flows under a natural stone bridge connecting two mountains. The site takes visitors to several cathedral-like caves, rivers and waterfalls with clear waters.

3. Waterfalls

Dubbed the “City of Waterfalls,” Calbayog is home to many beautiful natural waterfalls worth visiting. The most easily accessible ones include Bangon-Bugtong Falls, a 60-meter high cascade, and the multi-faceted Tarangban Falls which is just found nearby. Lulugayan Falls in Calbiga is another picturesque waterfall that’s becoming more popular with tourists.

4. Rivers

Before roads and highways were built on the island, locals relied heavily on the river systems that snake around the island for transportation.

Ulot River is the longest river in Samar Island, stretching over a distance of 90 kms. It used to serve as a navigational highway between the provinces of Samar and Eastern Samar in the years when there was no road network. Nowadays, the extreme adventure aboard Torpedo boats is what attracts travelers to this river.

5. Beaches

Though Samar Island has over 800 km of coastline, it’s not really known for its beaches on the mainland. But hopping on a boat to explore smaller islands nearby will bring you to more scenic spots for swimming, snorkeling and diving. For instance, the beach in Borongan City, the capital of Eastern Samar, has a wide black sand beach. Nearby, you can also visit Divinubo Island and Ando Island, both of which boast of white sand beaches, vibrant coral formations, flourishing marine life, and sparkling clear blue waters.

Samar

About Samar Province.

Samar Island lies southeast of Luzon. It occupies the northernmost section of Eastern Visayas or Region VIII. The province of Samar (western) occupies the southwestern part of Samar Island. It has the largest land area (559,100 has.) among the three provinces which constitute 42% of the island’s total land area and 26% of Region VIII. The San Juanico Bridge connects Samar to the province of Leyte on the southeast across the San Juanico Strait. It is bounded on the north by Northern Samar, on the east by Eastern Samar, on the south by Leyte Gulf and on the west by the Samar Sea. Catbalogan City, the provincial capital is 107 kilometers from Tacloban City, the regional capital of Eastern Visayas.

Major Industries

a.) Integrated Mussel Industry (Jiabong) b.) Coco Oil Industry (Calbayog) c.) Tinapa Industry (Calbayog) d.) Native Cheese Processing (Gandara) e.) Abaca Industry f.) Ticog Industry (Basey) g.) Fishing Industry h.) Copra Industry

Source of Livelihood

Fishing, Farming, Tricycle driving

Import/Export Products

ALMAGRO - Known for its goat-raising industry and native ipil-ipil trees. BASEY - Known for its woven mats, wall decorations, etc. CALBIGA - The land of beautiful women, homemade delicacies like "piñato", "torta", "pastilles de pili". Also noted for its native wine "tuba". CATBALOGAN - The metropolis of the province; the center of commerce and industry. DARAM - A rich fishing ground of the province known for Carpas and Lapu-lapu. GANDARA - Noted for cottage cheese, "kisiyo", the rice granary of the province. HINABANGAN - Popular for its copper and coal mines and other natural resources. JIABONG - Noted for "tahong" a nutritious seafood. MARABUT - The place of the famous J Barin plywood factory. Also noted for its logging concession. MOTIONG - The town of the well known "Tabo", a weekly market day where products from the mountain are exchanged with products for its lowlands. MATUGUINAO - A town in the hinterlands of the province, noted for upland rice production. PAGSANGHAN - A costal town rich in "alimango". PARANAS - The site of SAMELCO plant, famous for its native delicacies "cuchinta" and "puto". PINABACDAO - A farmland for rice production and other root crops. SAN JORGE - Famous for its seed farm and nursery of different fruit trees. The place of the "calinayan" a local variety of rice. SAN JOSE DE BUAN - The place of origin of heart of Samar Island where its highest mountain :Mt. Huraw" is found. SAN SEBASTIAN - Known for its abundance in crabs and shrimps and processed crab meat. STA. MARGARITA - One of the cleanest town in the province and noted for its small-scale fiber craft industry & abundance of Alimango. STA. RITA - Situated in the mouth of San Juanico Strait noted for copra, root crops and woven mats. STO. NIÑO - An island municipality abundant in seafoods. TAGAPUL-AN - The island of citrus fruits and varied orchids. TALALORA - Another fishing ground of the province. TARANGNAN - Catholic pilgrims consider us their "Mecca" where the miraculous image of St. Francis of Assisi shrine is. It is famous for jelly fish and prawn for export; famous for jellyfish and prawn for export. VILLAREAL - Noted for its hospitable people, priest, musician, and other professionals. The town of homemade delicacies like "curioso", "de caña" and "rosquites". ZUMARRAGA - One of the cleanest towns of the province, rich fishing ground.

Languages

The province of Samar is a member of the Samar-Leyte (Waray Group), the sixth largest cultural-linguistic group in the country. The majority (90.2%) of the total household population speaks the Waray dialect. The remaining 9.8 percent speaks Cebuano (8.1%), Boholano (0.07%), Tagalog (0.5%) and other dialects. Other languages used are English and Chinese Capital Samar Island lies southeast of Luzon. It occupies the northernmost section of Eastern Visayas or Region VIII. The province of Samar (western) occupies the southwestern part of Samar Island. It has the largest land area (559,100 has.) among the three provinces which constitute 42% of the island’s total land area and 26% of Region VIII. The San Juanico Bridge connects Samar to the province of Leyte on the southeast across the San Juanico Strait. It is bounded on the north by Northern Samar, on the east by Eastern Samar, on the south by Leyte Gulf and on the west by the Samar Sea. Catbalogan City, the provincial capital is 107 kilometers from Tacloban City, the regional capital of Eastern Visayas.

Traditions and Beliefs

Many Waray traditions can be traced to pre-colonial times. For example, the Kuratsa dance is a very popular traditional dance of the Waray-Waray at many social gatherings, especially weddings. It is very common throughout Samar. The couple who dances the Kuratsa are showered with money by the people around them. The belief is that the more money showered upon them, the more blessings will come their way.

Religion

Majority of the Samareños is devout Roman Catholics, comprising about 95 percent of the total households population. Other religious sects are United Church of Christ, Aglipay, Iglesia ni Cristo, Mormons, Baptist, Born Again Christians and the 7thDay Adventists.

Festivals

In the city of Catbalogan and some towns in Samar celebrate its festival aside from its town fiesta every year. Other towns the fiesta is celebrated together with the town festival, while others celebrate it separately. However, during the Samar Day Celebration, all municipalities are welcome to participate in the contest of festivals during the parade wherein the participants tried their best to get the winning prize. Colorful costumes and dances can be seen in the parade. 1. Almagro - May 5 2. Basey-Banigan-Kawayan September 29 3. Calbayog City-Sarakiki, Charter Day Foundation September 8 / October 16 4. Calbiga-Pahoy-Pahoy May 25 5. Catbalogan City-Mangirisda, Pintados August 24 6. Daram- Daramsiyaw January 15 7. Gandara-Karabaw September 29 8. Hinabangan-May 1 9. Jiabong - Tahong May 17 10. Marabut-Kinarawgan January 15 11. Matuguinao-Pamugas Matuguinaonon May 15 12. Motiong-Sadok December 8 13. Pagsanghan-February 22 14. Paranas-Bagolan June 29 15. Pinabacdao-Mayaw-Mayaw May 10 16. San Jorge-Kuratsa de Arnis May 15 17. San Jose de Buan- Manobo January 15 18. San Sebastian-Pasayan September 29 19. Sta. Margarita-Alimango July 25 20. Sta. Rita-Patiklos May 15 21. Sto. Niño-Los Viajeros January 15 22. Tagapul-an-June 12 23. Talalora-Uway July 25 24. Tarangnan -October 4 25. Villareal -August 30 26. Zumarraga -Kima-Kima June 13

Attractions

Samar province has her share of nature’s bounty. Among the nature’s jewels which enchantingly lure tourists and local folks includes unexplored mountains and caves which are inhabited by exotic wildlife, pristine shores rimmed by unspoiled coral reefs, cloud-hidden lakes of blue surrounded by multi-colored flowers and beautiful beaches and waterfalls nestled beside a mountain. Here are some of Samar’s beautiful spots. Sohoton National Park Sohoton Natural Bridge The Sohoton Natural Bridge of Basey, Samar The park is situated at Rawis, Brgy. Guirang, Basey, Samar covering an approximate area of 840 hectares. Fascinating geological features abound in the area of the national park such as caves, hugs, limestone boulders, rockholes, weathered formation rocks and underground rivers. The most prominent assemblage in the park is the cathedral-like caves, which are the Panhulugan I, and II, Sohoton and Bugosan. All the caves in the park are endogen caves in angular limestone cliff, which support the base of other crack system. It abounds with flowstones and dripstones. Two and a half (2½) hours motorboat ride from Tacloban City and two (2) hours ride from Basey proper can reach these tourist spots in Basey. Sohoton Natural Bridge A fantastic huge arch-shaped rock that connects two mountains ridges spanning the Sohoton River. It has a vertical clearance of 23 feet, about 8 meters in width and 40 meters in length. The Stone Bridge is forested at its upper portion while on its underside hang heavy karst formations of giant stalactites forming like swords and rockets. This is located within the Sohoton National Park in Basey. Panhulugan Cave 1 This cave frames itself in an angular limestone cliff forming a letter “H” where its three (3) main cracks serve to wit its form, its two (2) parallel legs lying 50 meters apart and connected at the entrance by a perpendicular crosspiece. The cracks serve to be the hub opening for internal hallways. All portions of this cave are geologically active as evidenced by the constant drips of water from stalactites. The internal cave chambers measured some 49.2 feet high at the end of its leg. Its cathedral immensity contains a mismaze interior that branch out into many multi-leveled chambers and tunnels with an infinite variety of flowstones and rock formations resembling some familiar images of the outside world ranging from miniature of famous tourist spots. It is located within the Sohoton National Park in Basey. Panhulugan Cave II Panhulugan Cave The Panhulugan Caves was used as burial disposition during the 13th century. The cave resembles a scar formed by a rock shelter around 164 feet (50 meters) in length and 16.4 feet (5 meters) in height. It is also topographically divided into four parts: Areas, A, B, C and D. Snow-white glittering stalactites of various symmetry hang from the cave’s ceiling, while the brownish to grayish stalagmites seem to grow endless on the cave’s floor. Also located within the Sohoton National Park in Basey. Sohoton Cave The Sohoton cave is a cathedral-like dome with an entrance of a parabolic arch-type for about fifty-meters high. It has a flat door area near the entrance, about twenty (20) meters in width and fifty-meters in length. On its ceiling hangs spike-shaped crystalline stalactites and rustic and cavernous walls and stalagmites on the cave’s floor. At the far end of the cave are a prince-like window and a balcony overlooking the natural swimming pool below. Also located within the Sohoton National Park. Panhulugan Cliff Panhulugan Cliff is a high and steep rock formation directly across Panhulugan Cave I. Down this towering cliff is a narrow curve of the Sohoton River wherein passing bancas are dragged during low tide. The name Panhulugan is from the waray-waray word “hulug” which means to drop from atop. Filipino rebels had used this cliff as an ambush area during the Filipino-American war, also located within the Sohoton National Park. Bugasan and Kapigtan Caves Found also within the Sohoton National Park are the Bugasan and Kapigtan Caves. These are smaller caves compared to Sohoton and Panhulugan caves. The only difference of these caves of the that to Sohoton is the presence of concavities where ancient remains had been found dating to the Stone and Iron Age period. Ruins of 15th Century Church 17th Century old church in Basey 17th century old church of Basey, Samar This is a landmark of the 15th century church found in the mountain of Barangay Dapdap, Tarangnan, Samar. This was also called “Tinago Church”, being a hideout of Spanish missionaries. Basey 17th Century Church The church stands as a historical landmark of Basey. Bangon Falls Bangon Falls is one of the most beautiful and spectacular scenic spots worth visiting in the province. From Brgy. San Jaoquin, Tinambacan district, Calbayog City, where Taranban Falls is located; it will take an additional 20 minutes ride to reach Brgy. Tinaplacan and another 30 minutes walk to the vicinity of the falls. Following the stream by ascending to the upper level, one will be amazed to see a circular pond of about 30 meters in diameter, wide enough for swimming and deep enough for diving. The water that falls from above seems to come from an endless stream which flows a swirling path around the falls resulting from the pressure of its disgorge becoming even bigger in volume and noticeable as the time of the day passes. It is not only a tourist spot but also a potential source of power to serve the city of Calbayog and its neighboring localities. Malajog Beach Stretching about 200 meters long of grayish sand and cold blue waters with towering rocks at its south and three (3) beachfront balconied cottages. The resort gives a south sea island touch and is frequently visited by metropolitan VIPs, movie stars and foreign dignitaries. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Samar Island located in Brgy. Malajog, Tinambacan district of Calbayog City. Lo-ok Beach This beach resort is most often visited due to the accessibility of the place. It can be reached by a 30-minute ride from Calbayog City and 10 minutes from Tinambacan District. Its white sand, blue waters, swaying palm trees, towering rocks and concrete rest houses give the spot a "South Seas Island" touch. What is most inviting is the cool water, which is different from other beach resorts. Tinago-an Cave This cave is situated at the edge of Brgy. Longsod, Oquendo district of Calbayog City. The cave has been the main attraction for picnickers desiring to get the rare thrill and excitement of having a trip through nature-made dark tunnels. The cave made a name for itself when it was made a hideout by two men wanted by the guerrillas who hid in it for nearly two years and coming out at night in search for food. Hence, the name “Tinago-an” means hiding place. Mawacat Slide Mawacat Slide is an hour ride from the Calbayog City proper to Brgy. Mawacat, Oquendo district and a 20-minute walk thereafter along a foot trail, shaded by lined tall trees. It is a natural spoon-like formation, which inclined more or less by about 45 degrees and stretching a length of about 50 meters. Water flows along this giant cistern and from the top, one can slide through the mossy lane to the cool inviting pool below. Blanca Aurora Falls in San Jorge A bathing resort mostly favored by Samareños, which is found at Brgy. Blanca Aurora, municipality of San Jorge. Pan-as Falls Pan-as Falls is located at Brgy. Pilar, Oquendo district, Calbayog City and is surrounded with the mighty stands of rare timbers and wildlife that abound in the area. An hour drive from the Calbayog City proper and a 30-minute hike from the village can easily visit the place. Seen from afar, it is like a long constructed boat by the mountainside and at a close up, a series of long drop of crystal water to another. At places where the cataract is quite high, the falling of water into the pool below becomes a mere mist because of its high elevation. It is the source of water supply of the city populace. Ton-ok Falls The scenic view of the waterfall is vividly illustrated through the boulders that rise and water falls in a series of cataract-like steps from down below to the topmost section of the mountain. Nature has placed it within easy reach to compensate and preserve its beauty. Located in Brgy. Sigo, Oquendo district the place can be reached by a 40- minute drive from the Calbayog City proper. The Mini-Hydro Electric Power Plant is also located here. Lologayan Falls A series of towering altars of rugged stones wherein between its depression, flow the ribbon-like cool water which according to old folks, cleansed the hair of a legendary lady. The term “lologayan” came from the waray-waray root word “logay” meaning to unfold a braided long hair. Thus, this term probably came from a legend of a maiden who frequently visited the place to rinse her long hair. To the site is an hour ride from the Calbayog City proper to Brgy. San Jaoquin, Tinambacan district and a 10-minute hike onward. This falls is also a source of potable water for San Jaoquin folks. Mapaso Hot Spring As the name suggests, “mapaso” (literally means hot) is a hot spring with the consistency of boiling water. Nature has given its life in the form of fresh crustaceans (pokot) with a tainted pink-red appearance, which ordinarily resembles the tint of a scalded shrimp. This is located at Brgy. Rizal II, Oquendo District, Calbayog City Darosdos Falls This falls is situated in Calbayog City. It is famous for its seven-layered falls and it is a good source for hydro electric power. Calbayog Cathedral Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral in Calbayog City Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral that is considered to be the biggest church in all parishes in the province, seems to have lost its Spanish touch. Nevertheless, the old dome, the spire and the thick walls reveal the blending of two architectural worlds: the old and the new historical innovations. Traces of centuries old architecture could hardly be discerned. Multi-colored walls, niches, domed ceilings, blocks and tiles are, however, traces of Spanish culture. Danao Cave The unexplored Danao Cave is situated at Brgy. Danao I, Tinambacan district, some 114 kilometers towards the western coast of the city of Calbayog. It is made up of seven (7) chambers inhabited by various species of snakes and bats as evidenced by a good deposit of guano. The cave serves as an initiating hive for those who want to acquire talisman. Guinogo-an Cave Situated at the fringes of Brgy. Longsob, Oquendo District, the cave is very proximate to Mapaso Hot Spring and is almost equidistant from the Calbayog City proper. Its cathedral door size entrance leads one to wade fresh, cool water into a natural tunnel stretching through, uneven ceiling with some portions touching one’s head, giving the adventurer an eerie trip through the dark cave which can be explored by carrying lighted torches. Samar Archeological Museum The first ever to be established in the province of Samar, this museum is one of the vital contributions of Christ the King College in preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Filipino people. A collection of many artifacts gathered from all points of Samar Island, the museum also houses ancient coins, jars, Chinawares, bracelets and beads that date back to as early as the 14th century. The place can easily be visited at Christ the King College within the Calbayog City proper. Guimit Cave This is another large cave full of stalactites and stalagmites, which is situated at Brgy. Mallorga, Talalora, Samar. It can be reached by one and a half-hour motorboat ride from Catbalogan. Obelisk The Obelisk features the major historical events of the province which is depicted in the four sides of the structure: the arrival of the 1st Jesuit Missionaries on October 15, 1596; Rebellion of Agustin Sumoroy in 1649; Decree of Queen Isabella on August 11, 1841 declaring Samar as an independent province no longer under the jurisdiction of Cebu nor Leyte; and, the Samareños Victims of Balangiga Massacre on September 29, 1901. This historical landmark is situated in front of the Capitol Building, Catbalogan, Samar. Kinabut-an Spring The spring is about 40 minutes ride from Catbalogan by land and is located at Brgy. Patag, Paranas, Samar. It is a refreshing hideout from the maddening crowd which city and urban dwellers find alluring. Ruins of Bangahon Ruin of Bangahon is a historical landmark near the right fork of Gandara River. It was once a town during the revolutionary period, but was abandoned by the old residents who later found the present town of Gandara. San Juanico Bridge One of the popular bridges nationwide known as “San Juanico Bridge” has the distinction of being not only the longest bridge in the Philippines but also the longest in Southeast Aisa. It has a total length of 2.162 kilometers or 2,162 linear meters, the equivalent of 7,092 feet and having a breadth of 10.62 meters. The highest point at the main span is 41 meters above the water level. It has 43 spans and 42 piers. The S-shaped structure on the Samar side had to be adopted to make use of the importance of the existing islet, the Cabalauan islet that lies in the middle of the San Juanico Strait between the two island provinces of Samar and Leyte. This islet serves as resting point and provides added support to the massive structure soaring over the swift currents of the strait. Lulugayan Falls and Rapids Calbiga Cave Entrance of the Langun-Gobingob Cave in Calbiga, Samar Nature-lovers likewise enjoy white water rafting (rapids shooting) a very challenging aqua sports at the Lulugayan falls and Rapids of Calbiga, Samar. Langun-Gobingub Cave Spelunkers will surely enjoy exploring the Langun-Gobingob caves of Calbiga, Samar, said to be the 2nd largest Karst cave in the world. Marabut Marine Park One of the scenic natural attractions located in the municipality of Marabut, Samar. Marabut marine park boasts its 15 towering rock islands with secluded beach coves and coral gardens, perfect for snorkeling, scuba-diving, sun bathing and other water sports activities. Caving (Catbalogan), Falls visit (Calbayog), rock climbing (Marabut) Caluwayan Beach Resort Caluwayan Palm Island Resort & Restaurant is an ideal eco-tourism oriented resort designed to fit as a perfect alternative place of relaxation in Marabut, Western Samar, being surrounded by a breathtaking view of towering rock islands and islets with secluded coves and coral gardens, truly a paradise for scuba diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, sailing, swimming, sun-bathing or simply lazing on the beach enjoying the view of the beautiful seascape of the bay.

Popular Food

Tamalus (Pork with Peanuts) In Catbalogan City is called Tamalos be it plural or singular! And it tastes differently good - there are no eggs, shrimps, chorizos nor chicken, just pork. Choco Moron Bearing no resemblance to its English namesake, another Waray delicacy is the moron – sourced mostly from the town of Abuyog, Leyte. It is a also a dessert of coconut strips and as well as pilit, Philippine fancy rice. Just like most of its sweeter cousins, the moron is prepared using the giniling (milled) method. Not to sweet for it to be banned from the diabetic's table, it retains the flavor of coconut meat and the stickiness of its glutinous rice. Linabog Shark is not only prepared as sumsuman by Samarnons. It can also be eaten as viand and goes well with cooked rice, corn or root crop. The delectable meat that is mixed in rich coconut milk and spices is an appetizing dish.

History

Prior to the coming of the Spaniards in 1596, Samar Island was called in different names (Samal, Ibabao/Cibabao, Tandaya, etc.). Legend says that when the Spaniards arrived in Homonhon Island, they met a wounded man and asked the name of the place, he replied “samad” which implies of what had happened to him for he didn’t understand Spanish. So, the word “samad” was adopted with an alteration in the last letter (from d to r). The name Samar was derived from the local dialect “Samad”, meaning wound or cut, which aptly describes the rough physical features of the island that is rugged and deeply dissected by streams or a multitude of rivers dissect the island in various directions like crease-crossing wounds. click here In the early days of Spanish occupation, Samar and Leyte islands were under the jurisdiction of Cebu. In 1735, Samar and Leyte were separated from Cebu and declared into one province with Carigara, Leyte as the capital. Consequently, during the Spanish-American colonial period, Samar was separated from Leyte and declared as a province in 1768 with Catbalogan as the provincial capital. On June 19, 1965, RA 4221 was passed by Congress dividing Samar Island into three (3) provinces: Northern Samar with Catarman as capital, Eastern Samar with Borongan as capital, and Western Samar with Catbalogan as capital. A subsequent legislation passed on June 21, 1969 (RA 5650) changed the title “Western Samar” to simply Samar.

Getting There

By land: Buses from Manila-Mindanao By air: Calbayog & Tacloban Airports By sea: Ports

Modes of Transportation

PUB transportation, Multicab, tricycle, motorcab

Seaports and Airports

Calbayog (have Seaport and Airport), Catbalogan (Seaport)

Crime Rate

Crime rate 18.06% (Source: Samar PPO)